A 66-year-old St. Cloud man is facing multiple felony child-sex-abuse charges after children who lived in his home told authorities they had endured years of abuse, police said. Investigators say the alleged victims include children as young as 5, and detectives told reporters they believe there may be additional victims. The case remains active and under review by local detectives.
Investigation began after disclosure
According to investigators, the case started when one child disclosed the alleged abuse to another adult, who then went to the police, WKMG/ClickOrlando reports. The outlet notes the suspect, who is 66, is now facing multiple felony counts. Detectives say the inquiry is still very much in motion as they chase down leads and look for any other potential victims.
What the law says
Offenses such as lewd or lascivious molestation and sexual battery carry severe penalties in Florida. An adult who intentionally molests a child under 12 can be charged with a life felony, and a conviction requires registration on the state sex-offender registry. Florida Statutes defines lewd and lascivious offenses, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement maintains the public registry of convicted offenders. Anyone charged is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
How to report and get help
If you have information about this case or believe a child is in immediate danger, contact local police or report concerns to the Florida Abuse Hotline at Florida Abuse Hotline, which operates 24/7 and routes reports to protective investigators and law enforcement. The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children also accepts reports through its CyberTipline and offers resources for families and survivors. Local victim-assistance programs and the state hotline can connect affected families with referrals and support services.
Police ask for tips
Detectives say they suspect there could be more victims and are urging anyone with relevant information to contact St. Cloud police, according to WKMG/ClickOrlando. Investigators are also asking residents not to spread unverified details while the probe continues, saying unsubstantiated rumors could interfere with active leads or potential prosecutions.
